Wildlife

Merlin Welfare: The UK's Smallest Falcon and Upland Breeding Habitats

Welfare and conservation guide for merlins — the UK's smallest falcon, dependent on upland heather moorland.

Key Facts

Merlins are the smallest falcon in the UK and a Schedule 1 protected species
They breed on upland heather moorland and feed primarily on small birds caught in low-level aerial pursuit
Population trends have fluctuated — declines are linked to loss of heather moorland and prey availability
Merlins nest on the ground in heather or in old crow nests in trees near moorland
Illegal persecution — including poisoning and trapping on grouse moors — is a welfare and legal concern
Chick welfare is dependent on prey availability — declining populations of meadow pipits and skylarks affect breeding success
Climate change threatens upland habitats and may affect heather phenology and prey availability
Nest disturbance by walkers, photographers or moorland management can cause nest failure

Welfare Significance

Merlin welfare is intertwined with the quality of upland ecosystems. Heather moorland management, prey base conservation, and elimination of illegal persecution are all essential for merlin welfare. The precautionary principle supports no-go zones near known nest sites during the breeding season.

What You Can Do

Respect upland nesting bird exclusion zones during the breeding season
Report suspected illegal raptor persecution to the police wildlife crime unit
Support heather moorland conservation through appropriate organisations
Advocate for stronger enforcement of raptor protection legislation